Google has introduced a new section "Communities" to its social network Google+.
The search engine leader Google claimed that more than 500 million users have signed up for the Google+ network and it has recorded 135 million active users in its social network.
Google has also introduced the Snapseed photo-sharing app in the Google Play store and Apple app store for free download.
Addition of Communities section in the Google+ is seen as an attempt to woo more users to its social network. Google+ is the fourth social network service introduced by Google.
Google's first foray into the social network was "Orkut," launched in 2004, which is now operated separately by Google Brazil. Its second network service was "Google Friend Connect," which was launched in 2008 and retired in 2012.
The search engine giant's third attempt was "Google Buzz," launched in 2010 and retired in 2011.
Of all the four social network services, Google+ looks most promising to challenge social network service leaders Facebook and Twitter.
"During the holidays we reconnect with loved ones and rediscover what makes us tick. And it's times like these that remind me why we started Google+ in the first place: to make online sharing as meaningful as the real thing. Too often our online tools miss the subtlety and substance of real-world interactions, and Google+ aims to fix this. Fortunately we've got a vibrant community to guide us," said Vivek Gundotra, senior vice-president, Google+.
The search engine giant claims Communities section is a gathering place for users to share their passions with friends which includes:
- Public or private membership to support all kinds of groups - from topics and interests to local neighborhoods.
- The option to start hangouts and plan events with community members.
- The section allows users to share with the community from any +1 button across the web.
The communities section in Google+ can be accessed from a PC; mobile phone feature will be introduced in the coming days.
The photo-sharing app Snapseed was rolled out along with the Communities section update in Google+. The app is now available for free in Google Play store and Apple's App Store.
Google recently acquired the Snapseed app developer, Nik Software Inc., for an undisclosed amount in September this year.
Snapseed app's main features include:
- Basic adjustments like tuning, straightening and cropping images.
- Creative filters like drama, black & white and vintage that users can apply individually or in combination.
- Control Point technology to enhance users' photo, like brightening just the face or deepen the sky and many more options.
- The ability to share users' artwork through Google + and other services.
The search engine giant claimed that Snapseed app was named iPad app of the year (2011). The company now intends to introduce this app to Android users.
Google looks to consolidate the mobile platform to reach out to more users in order to generate more revenue in this profitable mobile internet business.
